Why well-dressed single men have the best shot at receiving free upgrades

Natalie Paris, The Daily Telegraph

- May 21, 2013 11:17 am

Skift Take

The men are often business travelers with frequent flyer credentials, but it’s likely no coincidence that flight attendants making the selection are mostly women.

— Samantha Shankman

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A poll of airline staff has suggested that single men in their thirties have the best chance of getting a free upgrade on a flight.

According to the profile created by compiling the preferences of more than 700 flight attendants, the lucky man is also likely to be smartly dressed – a handy hint for any hoping to blag themselves a roomier seat.

While the poll showed men were preferred (58 per cent compared to 42 per cent for women), and that 30-40 was the age group most likely to be considered, travelling alone was proven to be most important if you want to be offered a premium seat.

Having good manners and being a frequent flyer also helps, according to the survey which was carried out by the flight comparison website Skyscanner.

The research showed that businessmen stand a good chance of moving beyond the economy class curtain, while those who would have the hardest time getting an upgrade would be anyone flying as part of a hen party. Votes from cabin crew showed that females in their late teens wearing revealing clothing and travelling as a group would be the least likely to qualify.

The survey of flight attendants in 83 countries found that nearly three-quarters of those questioned, 72 per cent, said they were more inclined to give an upgrade to a passenger flying alone.

Having an injury also makes you a likely candidate.

The cabin crew provided suggestions for increasing the chances of being offered an upgrade. Here are the top ten ways to improve your chances.

1) Be friendly and polite – 82 per cent of crew said it makes a difference